Staples survey finds germs are increasingly joining the work force

October 14, 2010

FRAMINGHAM, MA — A new study shows that many office workers feel compelled to be in the office when they''re sick while few take enough steps to keep their workspace clean, according to a press release.

A recent survey by Staples Advantage, the business-to-business division of Staples Inc., reveals that 65 percent of workers reported coming to work sick, while 80 percent reported cleaning their workspace only once a week or less, the release stated.

"Employers are concerned about decreased productivity due to sick employees and are looking for ways to maintain healthy workspaces throughout their facilities," said Lisa Hamblet, vice president for Staples Advantage and head of its Facility Solutions line of business.

"With employees coming to work sick, it''s difficult to prevent germs from invading the office altogether. There are easy preventive measures that can minimize the spread of germs within the facility and keep the business going," Hamblet added.

According to the release, survey participants reinforce that they want employers to get involved in preventing illness around the work place: More than half the respondents (54 percent) said employers should provide "touch-free" restroom products and 40 percent indicated flu shots should be administered at the office.